Chelsea have completed the signing of Marco Palestra from Serie A side Atalanta in a deal worth £43 million. Head coach Xabi Alonso believes the Italy international can strengthen his defence because of his ability to play in several positions.

The 21-year-old joined Atalanta’s youth academy in 2014. He made his professional debut in December 2023 before spending last season on loan at Cagliari.

Palestra enjoyed an impressive campaign with the Sardinian club. He made 37 Serie A appearances, scoring one goal and providing four assists. His form also earned him a senior Italy debut in a World Cup qualifying play-off against Northern Ireland in March.

Alonso values versatility

Although mainly a wing-back, Palestra can play on either flank. He is also comfortable as a full-back and in more defensive roles on both the left and right.

His speed has earned praise from those who have worked with him.

“He seems like a player built on the PlayStation,” Cagliari head coach Fabio Pisacane told Sky in Italy recently. “Ninety-nine per cent acceleration and so on. He is handsome even when he runs. He looks like a panther, like a leopard.” That man is Marco Palestra.

Rising reputation in Italy

Palestra has attracted attention across Italian football. Cesc Fabregas is an admirer, while Arrigo Sacchi backed his call-up to the Italy national team. Gennaro Gattuso later handed him his senior debut. Former Italy coach Luciano Spalletti also became aware of the young defender during his rise at Atalanta.

The defender offers more than pace. He can cross with both feet and beat opponents in one-on-one situations. Only Juventus forward Kenan Yildiz completed more successful take-ons than Palestra in Serie A last season.

Chelsea believes those qualities make Palestra a strong fit for Alonso’s plans as the club prepares for the new season